Social and Civic Whirl: Mrs. Frances Daniels Turned 105 Years of Age

Greater Metropolitan AME Zion Church, located on Brambleton Avenue in Norfolk, was the place of celebration for centenarian – Frances Patrick Daniels – who turned 105 years young on November 7, 2016. After serving as a Practical Licensed Nurse, she retired with 45 years of service to this profession. Can you imagine all that this woman has seen and done in her many years of living and serving the public?

After joining Metropolitan AME Church (now Greater Metropolitan) in 1942, Ms. Frances served in many different capacities showing leadership skills and being an inspiration to other members – especially young women. She was a member of WHOMS; President of the Stewardess and Deaconess Boards; Superintendent of Buds of Promise; and involved in Evangelism and the Athens Sunday School Class. According to her biography, Mrs. Daniels “served the Lord with all her heart and soul.” Because of the involvement of Mrs. Daniels in various facets of the church, it was only fitting that Rev. Sharon D. Hall, Pastor and the members of Greater Metropolitan AME Zion decided to honor this woman who has served for many, many years on her 105th birthday and give Mrs. Daniels her flowers while she is still living.

Following the morning worship service, where she arrived in a limousine donated by Metropolitan Funeral Services, a program celebrating the 105 years of life of Mrs. Frances Daniels began. Mrs. Carolyn Simmons was Mistress of Ceremony and also did the Opening and Welcome. The Prayer and Blessing were done by Sister Frankie Manley which was followed by a Song of Praise, “Jesus How I Love Calling Your Name,” by the Male Chorus of Greater Metropolitan under the direction of Mr. Prince Wallace. Members of the Male Chorus also served as waiters for the delicious meal.

Rev. Hall read a Distinguished Letter from the Bishop after which Birthday Expression were shared. Councilwoman Mamie Johnson (Ward 3) read an expression from Delegate Lionel Spruill (77th District) and gave her own words of blessings; and Rev. Dr. Edmund S. Whitley, Sr., Former Presiding Elder and Pastor. Other Expressions were rendered by Rev. Dr. Joseph Lamb, Sr., Former Pastor; Mrs. Eloise Ward, President of the Deaconess Board; and Family Representative Mrs. Sheila Stevens. Musical Selections were sung by Mrs. Carrie Peters; a song written and sung for Mrs. Daniels by Mrs. Olivia Cauthen; and her favorite selection, “The Lord Will Make a Way Somehow,” sung by Rev. Brandon Praileau.

Prior to the Closing Prayer by Presiding Elder Kenneth W. Crowder and Rev. Sharon Hall, the honoree who was superbly dressed and nails done, stated about three times that “I’m so excited!!! Thanks to all!!!”

May God continue to bless Mrs. Frances Patrick Daniels – 105 YEARS YOUNG and STILL GOING STRONG!